Edina, MN January 2025

Page 1


Hindsight is 2024

Happy New Year Edina!

I hope your holiday festivities were great ones. January is always an inspiring part of the year for me because it is a clean slate with a chance to start new goals and plans. 2024 is finally in the rearview mirror, and I can let go of the past and look towards the future.

January is our Health & Wellness issue and we like to highlight ways to kick start a new year with new ideas and health habits. This is definitely not a one size fits all guide, but hopefully we can share some worthwhile nuggets.

January 2025

PUBLISHER

Alexandra Patty | alexandra.patty@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sarah Knieff | sarah.knieff@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Susan Shannon | susan.shannon@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Kassi Miranowski | kassi.miranowski@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sue Baldani, Sarah Knieff, Sybil Velarde

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lucy Hawthorne, Glen Stubbe, Andrew Vick

Perspire Sauna opened this past summer in the Centennial Lakes plaza complex. We met with owners Jen and Charlie, and learned about their passion for the benefits of red-light therapy and regular sauna sessions. These dry sauna sessions can help with anything from muscle relaxation, improved circulation, better sleep, reduced stress, and increased metabolism just to name a few.

Aging in good health is on a lot of people’s wish lists, and when we spoke with Friendship Village, they provided some runway on what makes them unique and what you should be looking for in a senior living community for yourself or family members.

Our team met up with Dr. Ben Stein at his dentistry clinic in northeast Minneapolis to learn more about sleep apnea and potential treatment. Millions of Americans are living with it, but only a small percentage have been diagnosed. If you are struggling with sleep issues and would like more information, Dr. Stein has some answers.

Sometimes January can get a bit long, so we have some fun suggestions for winter activities to do around town. You can bundle up and move with skating, skiing, sledding or outdoor hiking.

Lastly, there is a fun and healthy recipe with whirled peas (not to be confused with world peace…although that is very top of mind these days) to help bring more veggies into the mix.

For this upcoming year, the Edina Lifestyle team will concentrate efforts on continuing to bring you community content while helping to support locally owned businesses and smaller non-profits.

If you have editorial suggestions or people in Edina you feel should be recognized, please reach out to let us know!

Stay warm and healthy out there,

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Children’s Theatre Company’s production of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

Want to be seen in the magazine? TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @EDINA_LIFESTYLE

Photography by Glen Stubbe

PRO TIP by Andrew Vick

Prezzie Gift Co.

Prezzie Gift Co. is a full-service gift concierge that provides personalized, thoughtful gifting experiences. From custom gift procurement and beautiful wrapping to curated collections for any occasion, Prezzie makes gifting seamless and stress-free. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, corporate events, weddings, bridesmaids gifts or any special moment. Learn more at www.prezziegiftco.com

Puppies & Yoga

Immerse yourself in the pupfect event! Start with 45 minutes of all-level flow yoga, surrounded by playful puppies in the studio located at 514 N 3rd St. # 101. Then it's even more puppy time. Cuddles, pictures and play for 30 minutes. To book your adventure, visit puppies-yoga.com

The New Fit

Stop by Comma, a Bookshop in Linden Hills on Saturday, February 1st at 10 a.m. to meet Aaron Leventhal, local author of "The New Fit: How to Own Your Fitness Journey in Your 40s, 50s, and Beyond."  Aaron and his wife, Christine, own FIT Studio in St. Louis Park, and have dedicated their lives to helping people get active and feel better. Visit  commabookshop. com or fit-studios.com to learn more.

Schedule today, soar tomorrow! Book a free trial at Mathnasium and jumpstart your child’s math journey in 2025. By fostering a love for math that extends beyond the classroom, Mathnasium sets kids up for success in the new year.

Contact Us for a Free Trial Session (763) 269-6969

Lynnhurst • 5315 Lyndale Ave S, Mpls • mathnasium.com/lynnhurst SLP-Edina • 5610 W 36th St, St. Louis Park • mathnasium.com/slp-edina SW Edina • 7104 Amundson Ave, Edina • mathnasium.com/swedina

www.mathnasium.com

get some fresh air

Outdoor Winter Activities Around Edina

Winter in Edina may bring colder temperatures and snow-covered landscapes, but it also opens up a treasure trove of outdoor activities that encourage both fun and fitness. With its parks, trails and community spirit, Edina presents a winter wonderland for residents and visitors alike. Here’s a guide to some top activities that allow you to embrace the season and create lasting memories.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

For those who prefer a quieter, more serene experience amidst nature, Edina and surrounding communities boast numerous crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing trails. The scenic paths at Three Rivers Park District provide stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. Grab your ski poles or snowshoes—both available for rent at local shops—and hit the trails for a refreshing winter workout. For more information, visit threeriversparks.org/activity/ cross-country-skiing

Ice Fishing

If you're seeking a unique outdoor experience, consider ice fishing on Lake Cornelia. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the sport, the thrill of waiting for a bite while surrounded by winter's tranquil beauty is unmatched. Be sure to check local regulations and get the necessary permits before heading out, and don’t forget your ice fishing gear! For more information, visit lake-link.com/minnesota-lakes/ near-edina-minnesota/951/

Local Festivals

Throughout the winter season, Edina and the surrounding communities are home to various events and festivals that celebrate the joy of the season. Check the local calendars for activities such as the Edina Winter Ice Festival and the Winter Village at the Westin – both in January. These gatherings not only bring the community together but also offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy winter-themed food and activities. For more information, visit edinamn.gov and edinaweekendwonders.com.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is a quintessential winter activity, and Edina features several outdoor and indoor rinks perfect for gliding across the ice with friends and family. The Centennial Lakes Plaza and Braemar Arena maintain public rinks. Whether you're practicing your figure eights or enjoying a leisurely skate, the rinks create a festive atmosphere. Don't forget your mittens and a thermos filled with a warm drink for those chilly days! For more information, visit edinamn.gov/1825/Braemar-Arena

Skiing and Snowboarding

Just a stone’s throw away from Edina lies Hyland Hills Ski Area and Buck Hill, two local favorites for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. With well-groomed slopes suitable for all skill levels, they both feature beginner and advanced trails. If you're new to the sport, consider taking advantage of their lessons. And don’t forget to warm up with hot cocoa at the base lodge once you're done carving your way down the hills. For more information, visit threeriversparks.org/location/hylandhills-ski-area and buckhill.com

Sledding

Sledding is a beloved winter pastime, and Edina is home to great sledding hills that promise hours of fun. Popular spots like the hills at Braemar Park and Buck Hill are perfect for family outings. Bring your sled, a few friends, and an adventurous spirit, and enjoy the exhilarating rush as you glide down the slopes, followed by laughter and hot drinks. For more information, visit edinamn.gov and buckhill.com

Winter Hiking

Winter hiking offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of Edina. The snow-covered paths at the city's parks transform into a wonderland. Pack your warm layers and embark on a peaceful hike through places like Arden Park, Lake Cornelia and Arneson Acres. As the snowflakes dance through the air, you’ll discover the beauty of the Minnesota landscape in a whole new light. For more information, visit edinamn.gov.

Winter Photography

With its snow-draped trees and frozen lakes, Edina provides a picturesque backdrop for photographers looking to capture the beauty of winter. Grab your camera and explore the scenic spots around city parks, the local lakes, and the charming neighborhoods. Don’t forget to check out Minnehaha Creek! Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur, the stunning snowy landscapes offer endless creative opportunities. For more information, visit minneapolisparks.org

EMBRACE WELLNESS

The Benefits of Infrared Saunas and Light Therapy at Perspire

As wellness becomes a priority for many, Jenifer Emerick and her husband, Charlie, have taken significant strides to help others achieve their health goals. After experiencing a personal journey through infertility, they opened Perspire Sauna Studio in Edina on May 31, 2024, to offer the community an

“Whether you want to zen out with a meditation, listen to calming ocean sounds, or catch up on your favorite show, we’ve got everyone covered.”

innovative approach to wellness through infrared saunas and light therapy. This duo believes in the versatile benefits of their services, catering to a wide age range from teens to seniors.

WHAT ARE INFRARED SAUNAS?

Infrared saunas utilize infrared heat—a type of energy that is absorbed by the skin to elevate body temperature and induce sweating. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you, infrared saunas provide a more comfortable experience by heating the body directly. This process aids in detoxification, improved circulation, and relaxation, making it a perfect fit for anyone seeking stress relief or recovery from workouts.

THE MAGIC OF LIGHT THERAPY

At Perspire, the saunas are equipped not just with infrared heat, but also with advanced light

therapy technology. Each session is 40 minutes in an individual sauna and can be completely tailored to the customer.

“Our studio features 12 private suites, four of which include in-suite showers,” Jen explains. “Each sauna is equipped with a digital control panel, allowing guests to customize the temperature, color light settings, and red light therapy. Additionally, every suite has a TV that connects via Bluetooth to the sauna, offering access to Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube. Whether you want to zen out with a meditation, listen to calming ocean sounds, or catch up on your favorite show, we’ve got everyone covered.”

The red light therapy featured is the application of low-level laser light, set at a specific wavelength, that safely penetrates the body’s surface tissue to energize cell regeneration and reduce inflammation. This offers numerous benefits:

Cell Regeneration: This low-level laser light promotes cellular energy production, stimulating the mitochondria to enhance healing and repair damage at the cellular level.

Skin Health: Red light therapy aids in collagen and elastin production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles while improving overall skin texture and tone.

Pain Relief: Both infrared heat and red light therapy work in tandem to alleviate pain, making them an attractive option for those suffering from chronic conditions or injuries.

Improved Circulation: Regular sessions can help increase oxygen flow throughout the body, aiding muscle recovery and promoting overall heart health.

"At Perspire Sauna Studio, we recognize that every individual has unique needs and goals," Jen states. "Some of our clients are fitness enthusiasts seeking recovery and rejuvenation, while others come to disconnect from daily stress, unplug, and find moments of mindfulness. Whether for physical recovery or mental well-being, the benefits of infrared and red light therapy are accessible to everyone.”

In addition to red light therapy, Perspire also offers color light therapy, which can elevate your mood and stimulate your nervous system. Different colors are associated with various benefits: for instance, blue light can help with relaxation, while red light can boost metabolism and energy levels.

A PERSONAL TOUCH

Jen and her husband's journey to health and wellness highlights the transformative power of their offering. After struggling with infertility for five years and eventually welcoming their son naturally, they recognized firsthand the uplifting effects of sauna sessions and light therapy.

“Whether for physical recovery or mental well-being, the benefits of infrared and red light therapy are accessible to everyone.”

"While we can't say for certain if our infrared sauna experience with another studio before opening Perspire played a role in our journey to parenthood, as it was the only change we made after years of infertility," says Jen. "Regardless of the reason, we are incredibly blessed to have our son."

By sharing their experiences and expertise with their customers, the husband-wife duo are committed to creating an inviting space where

individuals from all walks of life can find relief, rejuvenation, and support.

At Perspire, the mission is clear: to provide effective wellness solutions that meet the diverse needs of the community. Whether you're looking to relax, recover from physical activity, or simply incorporate self-care into your routine, infrared saunas and light therapy can be a game-changer. Visit perspiresaunastudio.com/mn/edina/ to schedule an appointment and learn more.

7525 France Ave. S 952-230-2574

it takes a VILLAGE

As people age, they often have to modify their lifestyles, whether that’s diet, exercise, downsizing or the need for assistance. This can create a lot of anxiety, especially when it comes to leaving the place they call home.

Friendship Village of Bloomington, a non-profit organization, has been making this process a lot easier for our neighbors since it opened its doors in 1979. With 565 residents, their every need and desire is taken to heart in a luxurious atmosphere.

“We have an upscale homey feel when you walk in the door,” says community outreach coordinator, Linay McCrady. “Many families tell me that they love the natural light that comes into the rooms from the large windows and they enjoy the tasteful artwork in the hallways. They feel at home with the warm colors throughout the community.”

In addition to the pleasing aesthetics, the reception team greets everyone with a smile and its staff members are also very welcoming. “Our staff is dedicated and loves the residents,” she says. “I have had many residents say that no matter how busy someone is, they always make sure to stop and say hello and help them with whatever they need.”

CONTINUED >

Supporting Seniors Through all Phases of Their Journeys

Friendship Village can accommodate those who don’t need any help to others who may need continuous assistance. “We have Independent Living (with our own home care team that can supply additional support, if needed), Assisted Living (for those who are needing more nursing support), Memory Care (for residents that are in need of a secure environment), Transitional Care (for residents that need short-term rehab), and Skilled Nursing (for people who need extensive nursing support).”

Having all the levels of care on-site allows residents to move from one level of care to another without having to leave the community. It provides that peace of mind that no matter where they are on their health journey, they will be cared for in a comfortable and pleasing atmosphere.

“Having our own home-care team is a unique service that we have on-site,” says Linay. “They support our residents in their current living environment to help them enjoy their home as long as possible before moving to the next phase of their health care journey. Having the full continuum of care is a huge benefit of Friendship Village.”

The community also offers on-site occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and 24-hour nursing in its health center. All of these services allow residents to feel that they’re getting the best care possible.

Friendship Village also provides 24-hour security so residents and their families know that they are safe and secure. “I recently had a new resident from our assisted living community tell me that they feel safe and loved here,” she says. “They were nervous about moving back to Minnesota, but we made the transition feel like home and they will always be grateful for the kind and loving staff that helped support them.”

While many residents are able to venture out on their own and go into town, there are plenty of activities to enjoy right on campus. There are two fitness centers with classes and personal training services, a pool and hot tub, a sports simulator, and a putting green.

In addition, the beautiful common spaces and walking paths all around the community encourage residents to enjoy the outdoors. There is also an on-site bank, several salons, a town car service, companion services, and massage therapists. There are 35 resident-run interest groups as well, so residents can stay as physically and mentally active as they are able to or prefer.

“We have an upscale homey feel when you walk in the door.”

There are also plenty of options for food and dining. There are four main dining areas and one bistro. “Elements is a dining room area in our independent living that offers modern cuisine served by our attentive and talented culinary team in an upscale atmosphere; Northern Lights is the main dining room in our health center that is used for our assisted living community and offers the same experience as Elements; Loons Nest is a restaurant that offers filling, comfortable fare in a laid-back atmosphere; Fruit N’ Nut Café is a great place to grab a casual bite or grab-and-go snacks to fuel your adventures; and Oak Terrace Lounge is a fun place to meet friends for drinks before dinner.”

Everyone on staff, she says, is there to serve the residents and make them as comfortable as possible. “I feel lucky to work for a company that puts the residents first and truly listens to what the residents want for their lives. We have excellent staff and leadership to make sure that everyone is heard. Friendship Village of Bloomington truly is a small village that works together to support the residents in all facets of their lives.”

As a result of this caring staff, Friendship Village is currently home to over 30 second-generation residents and a few third-generation. It has also been awarded number four in the nation and number one in the state by Newsweek as a continuing care community.

8100 Highwood Dr. | 952-831-7500 FriendshipVillageMN.com

LIFE’S BETTER WHEN YOU’RE PROTECTED UNDER OUR ROOF.

crown-bank.com

Sleep Well, Live Better

A Dental Device That Can Change Your Life

Dr. Ben Stein

Like most dentists, Dr. Ben Stein of Northeast Dental does everything from filling cavities to placing crowns. But, he also has another unique expertise.

“I became a diplomat with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine last summer,” he says. “I was first exposed to it when I became a resident after dental school and I took a lot of classes, but when I moved back to Minnesota in 2020, I worked at a snoring and sleep apnea dental treatment center with Dr. Jon Parker, who has been doing this for around 40 years.” After learning so much, Dr. Stein wanted to make sure his patients had the same opportunities.

Dental sleep medicine focuses on the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, using an oral appliance to help patients breath at night. While many patients pursue CPAP machines to deal with their sleep apnea, some individuals cannot tolerate it.

“A dentist that is specially trained can provide an alternative treatment to CPAP, using an oral device,” says Dr. Stein. “Compliance and patient acceptance is generally higher, and ease of travel with an oral appliance is better. A lot of patients will use an oral appliance just for snoring too, it doesn’t have to be used only to treat apnea.”

Sleep apnea, he explains, is one of the most underdiagnosed medical conditions. Symptoms often include snoring, waking frequently, morning headaches, daytime tiredness, and mental fog.  Oftentimes, people don’t even realize they have a problem until their sleep partner mentions it to them. Apnea means “cessation of breathing,” and is often related to the soft tissues of the mouth collapsing and blocking airflow.

Sleep apnea can lead to reduced quality of life and has a great impact on overall health. “When you stop breathing at night, your blood oxygen content will desaturate,”  says Dr. Stein. “To replenish your oxygen, your heart has to work overtime, beating harder and faster to make up the deficit. This can lead to higher blood pressure and resting heart rate over time, which can increase risk for cardiovascular issues like stroke and heart attack.”

The four main factors affecting sleep apnea are age, weight, anatomy and hormones. Dr. Stein says as we get older, we lose muscle tone, including areas of the head and neck that help keep our airway open. Weight gain also adds more pressure to the throat and mass to the tongue, making it more likely to block the airway.

Other people are simply born with very narrow airways, which are prone to collapsing. “It’s like breathing through a straw all day long,” says Dr. Stein. Lastly, hormonal changes, specifically in postmenopausal women, will generally lead to a higher incidence of obstructive sleep apnea.

Treatment will, of course, benefit both the patient and his or her sleep partner, especially when it comes to snoring. “I would like to think I’ve saved a few marriages,” says Dr. Stein.

To diagnose sleep apnea, patients must participate in a sleep study, either at home or in a lab.

“When patients come to my office for a sleep consultation, the first step is a dental health evaluation,” he says. “We take necessary x-rays and

“We take necessary x-rays and perform examinations to make sure their teeth are healthy enough to use an oral device, and that there are no TMJ problems. Then, we’ll schedule a sleep study, and if they are a good candidate for an oral appliance, a medical doctor will give an order to have it made.”

perform examinations to make sure their teeth are healthy enough to use an oral device, and that there are no TMJ problems. Then, we’ll schedule a sleep study, and if they are a good candidate for an oral appliance, a medical doctor will give an order to have it made.”

If the sleep study reveals severe sleep apnea, or central sleep apnea (not obstructive), patients will generally start with a CPAP, which will provide a better chance for clinical success than an appliance. “If a patient just snores, or has mild to moderate sleep apnea, a dental appliance is often an appropriate treatment option,” says Dr. Stein. “We will take digital scans and measurements, and then send them to our specialized sleep laboratory to fabricate the appliance. This process generally takes two-three weeks.”

The oral appliance works by gently protruding the lower jaw to a prescribed position, which moves the tongue forward and out of the way so that it is not able to collapse and block the airway. Also, since roughly 80% of patients with sleep apnea grind their teeth, the appliance can provide protection for this grinding as well.

Dr. Stein says it's generally comfortable, but may take a few days to get used to. “At first, patients may experience a dry mouth or drool a bit. It’s also possible that the appliance could loosen a filling or crown, but that’s pretty rare. Lastly, there is a possibility for changes to your bite because by keeping the lower jaw forward, the muscles may relax into this new position. We make every patient a morning repositioner that helps guide the jaw back to its natural state, which is the best way to avoid any change to the bite. In my anecdotal experience, I would say 95% of patients will never notice a change to their bite.”

Follow up and oversight is a crucial part of treatment success. “Patients will come back for follow-up visits, where we clean and check on the integrity of their appliance, teeth, bite, and most importantly, make sure it’s working,” he says. In order to confirm this, Dr. Stein will likely recommend a follow-up sleep study, usually at home, while the patient is wearing their device.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Stein in his downtown Minneapolis clinic, call 612-379-2300.

WINTER VILLAGE AT THE WESTIN EDINA GALLERIA DECEMBER 4, 2024 - FEBRUARY 15, 2025

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR EVENTS & EXPERIENCES

ENERGY ELIXIR

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 beet

• 1 carrot

• 1 celery stalk

• 1-2 inches of ginger

• 1 lemon

DIRECTIONS:

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

whirled PEAS!

Vegetable juice is a great addition to your diet especially if you want to lose weight, gain energy, and feel great. Sometimes life gets too busy and you don’t have the time to cook healthy meals. Fall in love with leafy greens, fresh fruit, nut milks, and chia seeds all combined to make a quick, easy, and delicious contribution to your day.

BLUEBERRY MINT

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

• 1 fresh or frozen banana

• 1 cup spinach

• 1 cup water

• 1/4 cup fresh mint and/or 1-3 drops of peppermint essential oil

• 1 cup ice if using fresh fruit

• DIRECTIONS:

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

GREEN SMOOTHIE

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups cucumber

• 1 cup Granny Smith apples

• 1 cup celery

• 1 handful baby spinach

• 1/3 cup fresh pineapple (for a sweet smoothie or zest and juice of a small lime for tart smoothie)

• 1 sprig parsley

DIRECTIONS:

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

Veggies And Blenders Bring The Health We Need

NOVEMBER 1ST - MARCH 31ST

Nordic Village at Riva Terrace

Four Seasons Hotel

Minnesota meets the Swiss Alps in this seasonal pop-up dining experience at Riva Terrace, the Four Seasons' fourth-floor rooftop restaurant. Enjoy a warm welcome cocktail around the fire while you take in beautiful city views under a blanket of stars. Then delight in an intimate four-course dinner prepared by Chef Martin Morelli in your private mini cabin. fourseasons.com/minneapolis.

NOVEMBER 21ST - JANUARY 5TH

Glow Holiday Festival

CHS Field

Featuring over a million lights, the Enchanted Forest, Vixen’s Zip Line, and Giant Slide, GLOW is a must-see experience. The elves have been busy gussying up the place with new exhibits to make sure your holidays are shiny & bright. glowholiday.com.

JANUARY 10TH - FEBURARY 16TH

The Minnesota Ice Festival

Viking Lakes

Experience the thrill of an ice slide, twirl upon an ice skating rink, indulge in cocktails at two ice bars, escape the cold with hot drinks and yummy treats in the Warming Haus, order delicious eats from a row of food trucks, leave your mark on the popular ice signature wall, and become captivated by carvers at an ice carving competition. The Minnesota Ice Festival has it all. minnesotaicefestival.com.

JANUARY 18TH - FEBRUARY 9TH

Art Shanty Projects

Bde Unma / Lake Harriet

The team behind this event is excited to be back on the ice this winter. “We look forward to welcoming grown adults and kids of all ages to play, learn, grow, laugh, smile, sing, groove and gather with us in the Art Shanty village.” More details to come, including a performance schedule, village map, and information on visiting. artshantyprojects.org.

JANUARY 22ND - 26TH

U.S. Pond Hockey Championships

Lake Nokomis

In Minnesota, hockey is more than a game. It's a part of life. Since 2006, The U.S. Pond Hockey Championships have given hockey enthusiasts a premier opportunity to experience hockey the way nature intended. uspondhockey.com.

JANUARY 23RD - 26TH

Minneapolis Boat Show

Minneapolis Convention Center

The Minneapolis Boat Show has a wide selection of boats, an abundance of must-see attractions and fun features for all ages. minneapolisboatshow.com

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